Everybody loves the story about the little engine that could, and there’s a bar in Tacoma that screams, “I think I can, I think I can” more than the rest.

As a matter of fact, I KNOW it can.

Most of you understand that I adore South Sound entrepreneurs who take a chance on a dicey location and transition it into a profitable business venture that also works to transform the community. And because of this, the particular establishment that I want you to frequent the crap out of is none other than the Acme Grub Cage.

I’ve rapped about this spot — 1310 Tacoma Ave. — before, but the Acme is comin’ correct with some news that none of you should be quick to dismiss. THE ACME IS NOW SERVING LIQUOR!

That’s right, the Acme Grub Cage scored their liquor license, and they’re now mixing tasty cocktails in addition to the amazing rotating microbrews on tap. For the last several months I’ve watched the Acme updates on mySpace that just say: “The Acme is the secret clubhouse.” I must admit that regardless of how often I catch that post, every time I see those words, it makes me smile. But what do they mean when they say they’re the secret clubhouse?

Well, I want you to head to the Acme to find out. For now just let me put it to you this way: There’s a pole AND Twister.

I’m not alone in certifying how cool the Acme is. I wasn’t supposed to ever talk about this, so I’ll offer the following third-party (emphasis on the party) approval as discreetly as I can: There’s an alleged group of down-to-earth hipsters who host Dive Bar Nights once a week. What they do is simple. They get together, hang out at a dive bar somewhere in Pierce County, drink most of the establishments out of Rainier, and they have a blast! As the nightlife correspondent for the South Puget Sound, I’ve consulted with this group and tried to offer suggestions on spots they should consider, and I’m astounded by the fact that they’ve been to all of the ones that most people have never heard of. Awesome!

Well, this team of people has been to each and every kind of dive bar in this entire area and here’s the stamp of approval: Their favorite is the Acme. As I’ve said before, Steve, the owner, and his staff are really, really good people. They’re doing everything they can to earn your business and improve this corner on Tacoma Avenue that’s been a problem until they arrived. Now that the Acme is rollin’ with booze, there are no more excuses to be had:
Visit the secret club house now.

[Acme Grub Cage, 1310 Tacoma Ave. S., Tacoma, 253.272.1892]

Tell me where you like to party at sceneofthecrime@hotmail.com.